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Family Business Values

Over the years we've been fortunate to read the values statements of many business owning families. Many contain similar values, including those on the following list. Reflecting on these values might help your family reach an explicit statement of its values. Many family businesses have strong, constructive cultures based on values like:

Mutual respect

Social responsibility

Willingness to fight for beliefs

Integrity

Sense of humor

Responsible risk taking ? Thoroughness

Support for community

Stewardship

Concern for needs of others

Long term orientation

Family atmosphere

Emphasis on quality

Hard work

As you work on your own statement of values, consider this list and add to it. It has been our experience that the more explicit are the family's values, the stronger the business...and the family.

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